Experience the people, places, and stories of historic Minneapolis

Join scholars for an in-depth look at topics in Minneapolis history. These in-person and virtual lectures last approximately 1 hour. Pre-registration is required.

A Half-Century of Ice Racing on City Lakes

What to do with your Minnesota racehorse or backyard pleasure horse in the long winter months? Why not give them exercise, have them earn their keep, have them stay in fit condition, and have a bit of fun at the same time? For more than four decades, winter circuit racing schedules existed in the Twin Cities from late December to late March between 1888 and 1930. Minnesota was the only state to accomplish this historical marker. Learn who the owners, the drivers, and the horses were, skimming swiftly across the ice of our city lakes. And did the famous Dan Patch ever race on Lake of the Isles? An hour-long PowerPoint presentation with many photos of local celebrities.

Jan 15, 6 :30PM—St Paul’s Church, 1917 Logan Ave South

Presented by Kathy Kullberg

REGISTER HERE

 

Purcell & Elmslie: Spiritualism and the Powers House Renovation

William Gray Purcell and George Grant Elmslie’s architectural partnership in Minneapolis from 1909 to 1921 produced hundreds of Prairie Style buildings throughout the US. Architectural historian Richard Kronick will explain Purcell & Elmslie’s spiritual beliefs and how they were expressed in their architecture, with special attention to the Edward L. Powers house, the first building Elmslie helped design after joining Purcell (and George Feick, Jr.) in Minneapolis. Finally, Richard will explain the recent restoration and renovation in the Powers house basement, kitchen, and second-floor bedrooms.

Feb 7, 1:00PM at Purcell and Elmslie’s Powers House (address shared at registration) 

NOTE: This lecture is limited to 30 participants. Register now. 

Presented by Richard Kronick

 

Preserving Minneapolis’ Black History

Join historians and Minneapolis historic preservation staff to learn about the recently completed African American Historic and Cultural Context study. What is a context study and how does it fit into the preservation landscape? How was the study conducted? Learn how preservation professionals evaluate and identify important historical resources by working in partnership with community members. This study is leading to at least three nominations to the National Register, currently in progress.

March 18th, 6:30pm at the Hennepin History Museum

Register using the link below.

https://fareharbor.com/embeds/book/preserveminneapolis/items/690780/?full-items=yes&flow=1519989

Presented by Erin Que and Steve Gallo

 

Share Your knowledge – Be a Lecturer

We’re always accepting applications for lecturers. All lecture topics must be related to preservation of historic and/or cultural resources in Minneapolis. In addition, all lectures must be no more than one hour, including 10 minutes for Q&A.   

Preserve Minneapolis will pay each lecturer a $250 honorarium.

Submit a proposal, of no more than 300 words, to Preserve Minneapolis Lecture Series Sub-Committee,

Please include the following in your proposal: 

• Your name
• Your professional position and/or affiliation
• The title of your proposed lecture
• A summary of the content of your proposed lecture, including a brief description of the visuals you will use.
• Tell us why you are the right person to present this lecture.
• Your resume or curriculum vitae